A recent survey of channel partners highlighted the essential roles that technology service distributors (TSDs) play in quoting, vendor research, and support functions. TSDs act as a crucial link in the technology advisor channel, managing supplier contracts and ensuring partners receive residual commissions. Beyond financial and legal aspects, TSDs emphasize investments in platforms and personnel to help partners grow their businesses and boost technology sales. The survey revealed that partners heavily rely on TSDs for quoting and pricing, back-office support, and vendor research. Companies like Avant, Sandler Partners, Intelisys, and Telarus stood out for increased bookings with partners. Despite some fluctuations in business, TSDs like Pax8 are making strides in becoming mainstream players in the industry. Overall, TSDs continue to prove their value by providing vital support to partners in the ever-evolving technology landscape.
Vocabulary List:
- Channel partners (noun): Businesses or individuals that collaborate with a company to market and sell its products or services.
- Technology service distributors (TSDs) (noun): Entities that distribute technology services to partners.
- Quoting (noun): Providing a price estimate for goods or services.
- Vendor research (noun): Conducting research on suppliers or manufacturers of products.
- Support functions (noun): Assistance or services provided to partners.
- Contracts (noun): Legally binding agreements between parties.
